Former Kaeng Krachan park chief gets 3 years over disappearance of Billy

23 Sept 06:15 Key points summarised by AI

Former Kaeng Krachan national park chief Chaiwat Limlikhitaksorn was sentenced to three years in prison for malfeasance in office, nine years after the enforced disappearance of Karen human rights activist Porlajee “Billy” Rakchongcharoen.
The court found Chaiwat guilty under Section 157 of the Criminal Code for failing to present Porlajee to the police after his arrest, while dismissing more serious charges like murder and abduction due to insufficient evidence.
Three co-defendants, who were park officials under Chaiwat’s supervision, were acquitted due to insufficient evidence, and Chaiwat was later released on bail.
Porlajee’s widow expressed sadness and disappointment with the verdict, underscoring the widespread international attention and human rights concerns surrounding the case since Billy's last sighting in 2014.

Flooding persists in Bangkok and 22 provinces

Yesterday 16:00 Key points summarised by AI

Persistent flooding continues across Bangkok and 22 Thai provinces, though water levels are gradually receding in many affected areas.
Over 604,000 families, impacting approximately 1.83 million people, are still grappling with the widespread flood conditions.
The national flood death toll has reached 80 since mid-September, with fatalities reported across various provinces.
Major regions like Pathum Thani, Ayutthaya, and Bangkok report significant numbers of affected households, with hundreds of thousands still in trouble.